Despite the Premier League and other entertaining European leagues coming to an end, football fanatics all over the world still have the Copa America and AFCON to look forward to this coming months.
Indeed, South America and Africa will be broadcasted to the world as folks get to watch all the scintillating football played amongst the continent’s greats.
One tournament we will be looking forward to is Copa America 2019. Indeed, this is one competition that will be played with plenty of panache, bad blood, emotion, tension, and passion. We simply can’t wait!
But there is one question that has left fans puzzled over the current structure of Copa America. Just why is Japan and Qatar participating in the competition, yet they are thousands of miles away?
Why are Japan and Qatar Joining Copa America?
According to reports the (Conmebol) South American Football Federation currently has 10 members, with additional invitees that are required to meet the specifications and make the tournament work.
For example, in 2016, the association opted to invite six additional teams to participate in the tournament: three from Asia and three from North America. This resulted in a 16-team tournament that was played in the United States.
Nevertheless, in May 2018, the tables turned and the tournament opted for the structure that is followed by most international competitions, resulting in 12 teams, with Japan and Qatar being invited.
Did Japan and Qatar Qualify for the tournament through Asian Cup Final?
Despite Qatar edging out Japan 3-1 in the Asia Cup Final, this is not the reason why they were invited to Copa America. As a matter of fact, the invitation was a courtesy call by the Copa America Football Association.
Who will Qatar and Japan Be facing
According to the groupings, Qatar will begin by facing Argentina and Lionel Messi in preparation for the 2022 World Cup.
Additionally, they will be challenging the likes of Columbia and Paraguay in Group B.
On the other hand, Japan will face the likes of Paraguay and Columbia in Group B.
When was The Last time Each team Played in Copa America?
Japan have played in one previous Copa America, appearing at the 1999 tournament in Paraguay.
In that competition they finished bottom of a group containing Peru, Paraguay and Bolivia as they picked up just one point – a 1-1 draw with the Bolivians.
Qatar have never played in the Copa America before and will be using the competition to get used to a higher standard of football ahead of the 2022 World Cup, which will be hosted in their country.
In 2015, Mexico and Jamaica were the two teams invited to participate in the Copa America.